March 1, 2012

To Whom It May Concern, I look for specific qualities in the individuals I teach in the methods course at Drake University. I search for a willingness to engage as a learner, the personal drive to ensure a positive academic environment for students, and passion for the content. Mr. Patrick Brennan exhibits all of those qualities and more in his work to become a high quality educator. He should be considered for a teaching position in your school district. Mr. Brennan is currently student teaching at Roosevelt High School in Des Moines and completing his teacher preparation program in the School of Education at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. He holds a 3.6 GPA and will graduate in May of 2012. In my role as his instructor for Special Methods: Social Studies Education, his work in class was second to none. The lesson plans he created were thoughtful and detailed. The plans include best practices in his field of social studies education and provide a clear path for differentiation. Specifically, his unit plan on the Civil War included an intriguing essential question, creative instructional practices, and engaging lesson for students. More than other students taking the course, Patrick was dedicated to creating the best possible unit plan not for the grade, but in preparation for his work as a teacher. Patrick jumped at the chance to travel to Uganda and study human geography in the spring of 2011. He immersed himself in the culture and studied the traditions of the local population. His experiences abroad will only enhance his teaching in the social sciences. In addition to his scholarly success and experiences, Mr. Brennan exhibits many positive qualities that make his a great asset to your school. He will be a great educator and deserves any and all opportunities that come his way. Mr. Brennan is a team player, motivated, and his capacity to change a school for the better cannot be overstated. Please do not hesitate to contact me for more information at 515-556-1011 (cell) or via email: amber.graeber@dmschools.org Sincerely, Amber M. Graeber, M.Ed., NBCT Humanities Curriculum Coordinator, Des Moines Public Schools